The suburbs of Honolulu, Hawaii, are filled with sacred places visited by the ancient gods. Like most ancient gods, these gods had certain plants and herbs that were sacred to them. The ancient gods of Hawaii would drink awa mixed with water. Awa is a plant that has many uses. The gods would use it as an intoxicating drink. Ancient Polynesians would use it as a ceremonial drug to open communication with the elements. People suffering from rheumatoid arthritis were also given the plant as a remedy. All parts of the plant were used, leaves, stems and even the roots. The Ancient gods were said to have prepared the roots of the plant and then mix the prepared root with water.
It is said that water on the island of Honolulu, near Manoa Valley, home of the rainbow princess, was discovered by gods in need of fresh water to mix with their prepared awa. The Honolulu gods Kanaloa and Ka-ne, had found some very good awa. When they realized that there was no water around, ka-ne struck the ground with his spear and water came forth. This pool of water is referred to today as the door of Kalihi. Once they moved along a little further, getting closer to the valley, they found some more awa. Since the gods were very fond of the awa, and this awa was very good, they prepared som more, but were once again missing fresh water. Ka-ne put his spear in the side of the cliff this time and a fountain of water began to stream out from the place where he had removed the rocks. This place is now called Ka-Wai-a-ke-Akua, translated, the water provided by a god. The two gods found a place to stay in Honolulu. They made their home in a temple for several years, and were revered as the mighty gods of Honolulu.
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